Moving Cross-Country by Car
The material courtesy of Taylor Fleming-Henning

Life changes such as starting college or a new job may require you to pack your car and
move to a new city in a state far away. Moving long-distances can be pricey and stressful, whether
you do it yourself or hire
cross country movers, but it can also be a great way to see the United States. Here are a few
guidelines designed to help you plan your trip:

Buy a recently updated road atlas. Mark your route ahead of time in order to avoid getting
lost or sidetracked while on the road. Also, you can mark points of interest so that you can
add a little time to your schedule to stop and see them. Use an online mapping service to get
an idea of how long it will take you drive to your new home. However, a good rule of thumb
is to give yourself at least a week to make your journey. And, depending on your tolerance
for long drives, and/or whether you have another driver, plan to drive between 8-12 hours
each day. The online service can also help you determine the best routes through major cities,
which can sometimes be hectic and busy. The online service can tell you exit numbers and
driving directions before you are stuck in traffic trying to cross four lanes to get to your
exit.

Don’t book hotels ahead of time. The road is unpredictable. If you get behind schedule for
some reason—road construction or sightseeing—you may lose a reservation you already paid
for. Wait until you are an hour or so outside of your stopping point and then keep an eye out
for road signs that advertise a Motel 8 or Clarion hotel. Chain hotels such as these are
generally clean and comfortable, which is important because driving all day can make you
really tired and a good night’s rest is crucial.

Driving cross-country can be a great time to visit friends or relatives. Let people know you
will be in their area, even if they are a little ways off your route, it’s worth the extra time.
They may offer you good company along with a couch or futon to sleep on. You will have a
free place to stay and you will be able to visit someone you may not see often.

Make sure your car is ready for the journey. Driving cross-country requires a vehicle’s
engine to operate at high temperatures for long periods of time. Some cars just can’t handle
that sort of rigorous activity. Take your car to your most trusted mechanic at least a few
weeks before you set out, and tell him or her what you plan to do. Don’t skimp on repairs.
It’s worth it to know that your car is in good shape and ready to go. If you don’t already
know, learn how to check your oil and anti-freeze levels and pack a bottle of each just in
case. Make sure your have a jack and a functional spare tire, also. Ask your mechanic for a
quick tire-changing lesson if you need it. Get roadside assistance from your insurance
company or buy AAA’s roadside assistance. (Members of AAA also get discounts on hotels
and many other things.) If you have to get towed even once, it pays for itself. Bring a cell
phone with a good roaming plan in case you get stuck in a remote area with limited cell
service.

Last of all, don’t over pack the car. It can damage it as well as significantly decrease your
gas mileage. Mail heavy items such as books and papers ahead of time. US Postal Service
offers a very inexpensive rate for books. You can also mail lighter items such as pillows,
towels, blankets, or clothes. It’s better to donate, sell, or store furniture items if you are
limited to the space in your vehicle. Research Goodwill, thrift stores and inexpensive furniture
stores like IKEA near your new destination. It may be easier and cheaper just to get new stuff
when you get to your new home.

Well, now it’s time to pack up your favorite snacks, music CDs, and good pair of
sunglasses. You are setting out on a life-changing journey, and America is a fantastically
beautiful and fascinating country.